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What Is Gout and How can you Deal With It?

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes painful, red, inflamed joints. Although nearly any joint in the body can be affected (such as the knee, fashionable, knee, ankle, fingers and toes) the most commonly involved combined is located at the bottom of the big toe. Gout (also called gouty arthritis) is characterized by sudden inflammatory reactions or attacks that frequently happen in the middle of the night or during the early morning hours.

This condition occurs when like high levels of uric acid build up in the body that the uric acid starts to solidify, resulting in the formation of tiny crystals. These uric acid crystals can accumulate in parts of the anatomy, especially in joints and connective tissue in the lower half of the body. Not only can the build up of uric acid crystals temporarily hurt joints, but permanent damage can be done to be able to joints as well as surrounding tissues if the disease remains untreated.

Gout Has Multiple Causes and Risk Factors Associated With It

For example, being overweight increases the chances of getting this form of arthritis. Gout generally affects men. Diets that are full of red meat (especially game meats), certain fish (such as sardines, trout, scallops, and mackerel), gravy, and alcohol increase the odds of developing gout. It is for this reason that gout has been historically associated as a condition that locates the prosperous upper class. Certain medications (such as aspirin) and chronic health conditions can increase your chances of getting this disorder. Genetic factors also play a role. An injury to the joints can result in a gout attack in people who already have high levels of uric acid.

Gout Treatment with a Cherry on Top

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Symptoms of gout include attacks of extreme pain in the joints, especially including the big toe (a condition known as podagra).

Along with pain, many people experience a red discoloration of the surrounding skin and a loss of joint mobility.

These episodes can last for a few days then will gradually subside.

Effective prevention and treatment of gouty arthritis involve several important change in lifestyle. People who are afflicted by obesity should converse with their health care supplier about a diet and exercise program that fits their specific needs. Weight needs to be missing slowly but consistently in order to avoid triggering gout flare-ups. All people suffering from this form of arthritis should limit their ingestion of foods high in purines because purines are the chemicals in our food that your body metabolize in to uric acid. Other dietary changes include: reducing alcohol intake, avoiding high fructose corn syrup, and drinking more water.

Speak with your doctor if you suspect that you have gout, and to see if you are a candidate for receiving medications to lower uric acid levels. More natural forms of treatment include eating one cup of fresh cherries a day (or drinking cherry juice), because this looks to lessen the risk of recurrent gout attacks. Some people claim that drinking a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar diluted in water each day can increase the interval between attacks.

About Author:

Rachelle Kirk writes about natural health, wellness, and chiropractic care. In the event that you are looking for natural alleviation for arthritis, sciatica, migraines and other health conditions then http://www.backinaction.net is the perfect place for you.